Cryteks world design hasnt seemed to change much. The open-ended feeling that was promised in the original Crysis still isnt present. Instead, there are glimpses of non-linear gameplay, but most of it is short-lived. Players are presented with an objective and given free reign over how to take that objective.

However, most of those choices are limited to a rather narrow spectrum, so its like choosing from selections that were already picked by someone else. For instance, before assaulting a base, the player may have only a few options on how to do it, but not a choice about whether to do it and choosing a different base instead. Nevertheless, Warhead still delivers more options than most current first-person shooters, so while it isnt the open-world wed like to see, it still stands above most.

The controls in Warhead are identical to the original, and all the keys are fully customizable. Crytek tweaked the controls of the vehicles though, making them easier to drive and utilize to their fullest. Other than that, players can expect standard first-person controls and movementsthey were done well in the original and they are done well here.

The multiplayer component, called Crysis Wars, is considered by Crytek to be a separate game. It includes a lot of multiplayer enhancements that the original lacked. There are a total of 21 maps available, including seven all-new ones, as well as all the new weapons and vehicles. There are also some new game types that, ideally, should have been present in the original. For example, a team deathmatch (TDM) gametype that doesnt involve capturing and defending control points spread across the map. While the addition of a TDM game type doesnt seem ground-breaking, it has special significance in this case, since the original Crysis multiplayer didnt have it. Overall, it is difficult to find a reason why this multiplayer version isnt an improvement to the original, especially considering how incomplete the original multiplayer was.

Crysis: Warhead doesnt stray very far from the original Crysis formula. It still looks amazing, sets a great pace for an action title, and provides enough of a story to keep the player from going comatose. However, its difficult to justify paying the additional money for a whole new game when its just a standard expansion pack. Nevertheless, Warhead provides a great ride for those looking for a bit of a story, and it has potential for everyone else looking for that new multiplayer fix. While its certainly as fun as the original, it is tough justifying Warhead as a must-buy game. Instead, players who werent all that thrilled by the original probably wont find enough new things to make them change their minds. But, if youre a fan of Crytek, Crysis, or both, there really aren't any good reasons why you shouldn't buy this latest title.

By
Derek Hidey
CCC Freelance Writer

RATING OUT OF 5

RATING DESCRIPTION

5.0

GraphicsIts difficult to find fault in a game that achieves such a high level of photorealism and boosts performance on less powerful computers.

4.5

ControlThe added improvements to vehicles make the controls in Warhead top-notch.

4.0

Music
/ Sound FX / Voice ActingAbove-average voice acting, musical scores, and improved sound effects are only brought down by the occasional glitch.

3.5

Play
ValueA short single-player campaign packed with fast-paced action sequences just doesnt impress when it feels and looks so much like what has already been played in the original.

4.0

Overall Rating -
GreatNot an average. See Rating legend above for a final score breakdown.

Game Features:

Pulse-Racing New Installment: Play as Sergeant Sykes and experience a whole new side of the battle. A standard combat mission behind enemy lines becomes critical when you discover your enemies have captured something of vital importance to the ensuing war. Its down to you to retrieve the cargo, at any cost.

More Explosive and Dynamic Gameplay: New customizable weapons, new vehicles, new photorealistic locations to explore, and a fully interactive war zone to dominate.